ABSTRACT

Structural engineering encompasses those who design all types of structure including the further specialization of infrastructure and building design. Early in the twentieth century, a subset of civil engineers began to identify themselves as structural engineers. The creation of Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) in the UK in 1912 can be seen as a result of the development of the structural use of steel and concrete, which entered practice in this era. Within this group of engineers is a subset that builds their careers around designing structure for buildings. These engineers work in conjunction with architects and other consulting engineers to enclose inhabitable spaces. Professional and conceptual ideas distinguish this type of structural engineer apart from others. The question is: are there particular characteristics of this group of engineers and what are they?